Bill > HB38

This bill amends existing Virginia law to expand mental health awareness training requirements for full-time teachers and school personnel. The bill specifically mandates that mental health training address the needs of youth populations at high risk of experiencing mental health challenges, as identified by evidence-based practices from the American Psychological Association. These high-risk populations include youth who are bereaved by suicide, have disabilities or chronic health conditions, experience homelessness or housing instability, are in foster care, or identify as LGBTQ+. The bill emphasizes that while the training focuses on these specific populations, it should not be interpreted as permitting any biased or discriminatory treatment. School boards can continue to provide this training through various methods, including online modules, and may contract with different organizations such as the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services or community services boards to deliver the training. The core objective is to ensure that educators are better equipped to understand and support the mental health needs of potentially vulnerable student populations.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB38